Popular Tearjerker Song Rankings [2026]

Letter to TomorrowTeshima Aoi71rank/position

Aoi Teshima “Letter to Tomorrow (Drama Version)”

Aoi Teshima’s “Ashita e no Tegami” (Letter to Tomorrow) was released in 2014, and the version re-recorded as the ending theme for the 2016 drama “Love That Makes You Cry” also drew attention.

Its piano-centered acoustic sound layered with a delicate, ephemeral vocal tone moves listeners’ hearts.

The lyrics read like a letter to a loved one, and their straightforward message creates a touching effect.

The song was also used in an Aflac commercial, whose narrative-style content portrays Aflac’s stance of supporting those struggling with cancer.

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Castle on the HillEd Sheeran72rank/position

Ed Sheeran – Castle On The Hill [Official Music Video]

A moving masterpiece filled with love for his hometown and memories of youth has been delivered by UK artist Ed Sheeran.

From a childhood bone-breaking accident to his first love at age 15, this warm work is packed with nostalgia.

Released in January 2017 as a lead single from the album ÷, and featured in the animated films Ferdinand and How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, the song is written as a love letter to his hometown of Framlingham.

Now an adult, he gently portrays his childhood friends each walking their own path, singing of the flow of changing time and feelings that remain unchanged, carried by a powerful melody.

It’s a gem of a track that resonates with the universal sentiment of having a place or person you want to recall when you feel uncertain or lost.

StoryAI73rank/position

AI – Story

A ballad that sings of the reassurance of having someone precious by your side and of an overflowing, profound love.

It’s a single released in May 2005 by AI, a singer-songwriter who captivates listeners with her husky, soulful voice.

The dramatic melody that begins with a piano intro gently wraps around the listener’s heart.

Also included on the album “Mic-a-holic Ai,” this beloved classic stayed on the charts for over 70 weeks after its release.

It’s also known as the Japanese ending theme for the Disney film Big Hero 6.

Carrying the message that you are not alone, this song is perfect for graduation-season memory videos that express gratitude to friends and mentors.

Be sure to give this warm, moving number a listen.

planetariumOtsuka Ai74rank/position

Ai Otsuka / Planetarium

A heart-stirring ballad that projects the ache of love onto the stars in the night sky, this piece is marked by Ai Otsuka’s delicate vocals and lyrical piano.

Memories of a lover and the wistfulness of time gone by are woven into the beautiful imagery of starry skies and planetariums, resonating deeply with listeners.

Used as the theme song for the drama “Koi no Karasawagi” and included on the album “LOVE COOK,” it has continued to soothe many hearts since its release in September 2005.

It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while gazing up at the stars on a solitary night—recommended for those looking to heal the pain of heartbreak or to immerse themselves in cherished memories with someone special.

HarukaYOASOBI75rank/position

YOASOBI 'Haruka' Official Music Video

A moving work from YOASOBI—known for their gentle, warm vocals and story-rich songs—that poignantly depicts parting from a loved one.

From the unique perspective of a moon prince who has become a mug and watches over a girl through half her life, the song tenderly weaves themes of family and friendship bonds, the joy of growth, and the sorrow of farewell.

Released in December 2020, the piece was featured as the image song for “Art Aquarium Exhibition 2021: Hakata—Festival of Goldfish” and in a Takara Tomy commercial.

Its warm narrative carried by a simple melody will be there to comfort you when you want to look back on memories with your companions, or when you need courage before saying goodbye to someone important.

First LoveUtada Hikaru76rank/position

Hikaru Utada – First Love

A youthful love song by Hikaru Utada, whose lyrical piano tones and crystalline vocals sink deep into the heart.

The sorrow of parting and precious memories are woven together with care, and the recollection of first love returns like a film playing inside your mind.

Many will relate to the protagonist’s feeling that, even if a new romance comes along after the end of one, they can’t forget their first love.

Released in March 1999 on the album “First Love,” it was also used as the theme song for the drama “Majo no Jōken” broadcast the same year.

It’s a song that truly stays by the side of anyone who has experienced farewell with someone dear and is trying to move forward while holding those memories deep in their heart.

I loved (it/you)erica77rank/position

erica – “I Loved You” Full PV

A ballad by singer-songwriter Erica that weaves together the ache of heartbreaking unrequited love and the feelings left unspoken, set to the sound of piano.

The sorrow of a breakup and the pain of parting are delicately expressed through her clear, translucent voice.

Released in November 2015 and included on the album “Koku-uta 2: Things I Want to Tell You Before Graduation,” this song stands by those who have experienced parting, offering the courage to face forward while embracing the pain.

It will gently envelop the hearts of those who cannot accept the end of a romance, or who carry the regret of not having conveyed their feelings before it was over.